Today at a Glance: Nov. 13, 2012

The Senate resumes consideration of the motion to proceed to a bill that would increase access to federal lands for hunters and fishermen. The measure is sponsored by Sen. Jon Tester, a Montana Democrat who won a narrow re-election race. The chamber votes on the motion at 5:30 p.m., and further roll call votes are possible.

The House votes on four bills considered under suspension of the rules: One would allow the sale of remaining inventories of over-the-counter CFC epinephrine inhalers, one deals with processing claims of federal contract workers who were not paid appropriate wages, one — a Senate bill — would prohibit U.S. airlines from paying a tax the European Union plans to levy on their carbon emissions and one would extend certain space launch liability provisions. House passage of the carbon tax bill would clear that measure for the president.

The House Rules panel considers a rule for a bill that would normalize trade relations with Russia. A floor vote on that measure is expected by Friday, setting up likely enactment by the end of the year. Party leaders were reluctant to bring the legislation to the floor before the elections for fear of forcing lawmakers to take a politically tough vote.

Newly elected members of the House — about 80 soon-to-be lawmakers — will descend on the Capitol for the first day of orientation. The series of briefings and seminars is a rite of passage meant to prepare members-elect for their new roles before they’re sworn in. This year the process will last two weeks, separated by the Thanksgiving holiday.